Dual-Organelle-Targeted Near-Infrared Carbon Dots for Visualizing Glucose Dynamics in Cellular Energy Metabolism with Potential in Exercise Physiology

Abstract

Accurate monitoring of cellular energy metabolism is crucial for understanding exercise physiology and optimizing athlete training and recovery. However, current assessments mainly rely on macroscopic indicators such as heart rate and blood lactate, providing limited insight into intracellular glucose utilization—the key process governing energy supply and fatigue during exercise. Herein, we report the in situ synthesis of boronic acid–functionalized near-infrared (NIR) carbon dots (B-OH-CDs) from 1-methylisoquinoline and 4-formylbenzeneboronic acid under green, mild conditions. The resulting B-OH-CDs feature a graphitic carbon core and a borate-rich surface shell, exhibiting excitation-independent red emission (615 nm), high quantum yield (3.2%), and excellent photostability. Abundant boronic acid sites confer selective and sensitive fluorescence responses toward glucose (100 nM-200 μM, detection limit 85 nM). Confocal imaging reveals dual targeting of mitochondria and lysosomes, enabling real-time visualization of intracellular glucose dynamics related to cellular energy metabolism. This sustainable nanoplatform offers a new tool for exploring glucose-dependent metabolic regulation and holds potential for precision monitoring of energy balance, fatigue, and metabolic adaptation in exercise physiology.